We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.We support the following browsers:Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site was once the most famous and...

read more

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. Tours today include the cellblocks, solitary punishment cells, Al Capone’s Cell, and Death Row.

What an interesting piece of history. The atmosphere (it was cold and drizzling during our visit), the audio-guide narration (mainly by Steve Buscemi), the individual prisoner's stories (in their own voices), the history, the actual building & its design were powerful to experience.